Why does poop float?

So you can’t poop in the lake because everyone will know and you need a quick fix? Need not worry, we will help you sink those turds.

Floating stools can be caused by a variety of things, most being diet related. Floaters are rare for most people and usually are nothing to worry about. But, if you have very consistent floaters no matter what your dietary habits are, you should probably consult a doctor.

Possible Causes:

Plain and simple, floaters are caused by excess gas being released into your poop.

Any changes in your diet could result in this increased amount of gas. The gas is released from healthy bacteria found in your digestive tract. It is then contained in your feces which would cause it to float in water, similar to how gas bubbles rise when you fart underwater.

Sometimes an increased amount in healthy nutrients in your body can leave surplus nutrients in your feces instead of being absorbed in the intestinal tract. This too can cause the healthy bacteria to release more gas.

You also may not be getting the desired amount of fiber in your diet, which can lead to the old floating poo trick.

Once you notice the floaters it is important to retrace your last few meals. Any major changes? Did you eat a fishing bobber?

Other than diet changes, an acute gastrointestinal infection could result in an increased amount of gases in your intestinal tract because your bowels travel more rapidly through your digestive system.

There is a slight chance you may have undiagnosed celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder of the small intestines that occurs from eating food that contain gluten.

Possible Treatments:

Floating stools alone is not really anything to worry about, so there is technically no official treatment. Often a simple change of your eating habits will do the trick. There is no one food or particular diet that causes a floater, so if you are having a poop floating contest I can’t give you any cheats. It varies person to person.

If your floating stool does occurs for a few out of the ordinary weeks or if it is accompanied with blood or abnormal stomach pains, then you should see a doctor immediately.